Wednesday marked a big day for one group of people living in the Bronx. About 20 individuals were among 150 foreigners at the Jacob K.

THE BRONX - Wednesday marked a big day for one group of people living in the Bronx.

About 20 individuals were among 150 foreigners at the Jacob K. Javits Federal Building who became naturalized as citizens of the United States. Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson administered the Oath of Allegiance to commemorate his 100th day in office.

Each candidate had to pass an interview and naturalization test covering history, English and U.S. government. During the afternoon ceremony, each Bronx resident had their current country of citizenship read aloud before receiving their certificate of naturalization.

One Bronx resident, Esther Carvalhaes, had the added privilege of leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Carvalhaes is the director of outreach at Columbia University's Center for Reproductive Care, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Educational Psychology at the City University of New York.